Kaumatua Ben Hita blessed the new Iveco Eurocargo fire truck as part of an open day at the Wellsford Fire Station.
Wellsford Volunteer Fire Brigade officers and crew dressed for best and opened their doors on Saturday, October 17, to show off their brand new Iveco Eurocargo fire engine to the community. The pristine pump appliance was given a blessing by kaumatua Ben Hita from Kaiwaka, before visitors young and old were able to explore the 8.6-tonne truck.
Senior station officer Trent Jones said the new Wellsford 951 pump was an updated version of the vehicle it was replacing, a 2010 Eurocargo that has done a decade of service and will now be transferred to the Puhoi brigade.
“It is going to be a great asset for us. This is more advanced – more computerised and more efficient – and it’s safer,” he said. “It is lower and longer, though, which could have its challenges in some places.”
After the blessing ceremony, Karina Marsh from Wellsford ASB presented chief fire officer Trevor Bowmar with a cheque for $1500 for new equipment and crew support. Wellsford Police, Wellsford St John ambulance crew and cadets, Rodney Local Board member Colin Smith and Fire & Emergency NZ’s Volunteer Support Officer Terry Hewitt were also in attendance.
Children were able to enjoy colouring, treats and rides around town in a fire engine.
